“SWOT is an acronym for the internal Strengths and Weaknesses of a firm and the environmental Opportunities and Threats facing that firm. SWOT analysis is a widely used technique through which managers create a quick overview of a company’s strategic situation. The technique is based on the assumption that an effective strategy derives from a sound “fit” between a firm’s internal resources (strengths and weaknesses) and its external situation (opportunities and threats). A good fit maximizes a firm’s strengths and opportunities and minimizes its weaknesses and threats. Accurately applied, this simple assumption has powerful implications for the design of a successful strategy.”

Amazon.com, Inc.

Amazon.com, Inc. (Amazon or ‘the company’) is one of the leading global online retailers. It offers a wide range of merchandise, including books, apparel, electronics and home improvement products through its website www.amazon.com. Amazon also operates through various international websites. The company has operations in North America, Europe and Asia. It is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, and employed about 56,200 people as of December 31, 2011.